I agree with the above. If no overlap exists prior to reaching the 3 boat length circle, then AW is not entitled to mark room. However, one thing to keep in mind is that if BL changes her course to luff AW (i.e., heads up) prior to reaching the 3 boat circle, it is possible that she could inadvertently create an overlap with AW in which case she would have to give AW mark room.

Typically, if a boat clear ahead is being threatened by a boat clear astern trying to pass to windward when approaching the leeward mark (or finish line), the best tactic for the clear ahead boat is to bear away just before the 3 boat circle in order to ensure no overlap exists. Once it has been established that no overlap exists at the 3 boat circle, the leeward boat can head up to shoot the mark and close the door on the boat clear astern.


sm